0

Llandudno and Conwy lifeboats assist stricken yacht


September 24, 2024 - 367 views

Llandudno’s all-weather lifeboat, William F Yates, launched at 4.25pm yesterday, to assist Conwy Lifeboat with a 27-foot yacht that had suffered engine failure near the Fairway Buoy.

The yacht, which had been on passage from Falmouth, encountered engine trouble, leaving the skipper and their dog stranded and the vessel posing a navigational risk. Conwy’s inshore lifeboat, The May-Bob, was the first to be tasked with assessing the situation and providing assistance. Despite the crew’s efforts, all attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.

With worsening sea conditions, a strong ebbing spring tide, and a 15-knot wind, the crew, in consultation with the Coastguard, requested additional support from Llandudno Lifeboat.

Upon receiving the tasking, William F Yates quickly launched and made its way around the Great Orme, reaching the scene at 4.45 pm. Llandudno’s lifeboat crew immediately set up an astern tow and began towing the yacht through the Conwy approach channel with a rapidly falling tide.

Once they reached a safer area near the perch, Llandudno Lifeboat stemmed the tide in calmer waters, allowing Conwy Lifeboat to establish an alongside tow of their own onto the vessel.

Llandudno Lifeboat then continued to tow both vessels as far as Beacons Jetty, where the tow line was released, enabling Conwy Lifeboat to take over and bring the yacht to a waiting pontoon at Conwy Marina.

Llandudno Lifeboat then retraced its route, returning to the North Shore for recovery, where it was made ready for its next service.

An RNLI spokesperson says "This coordinated effort between the two RNLI stations highlights the importance of teamwork and the professionalism of both crews, ensuring the safe recovery of the yacht and its occupants in challenging conditions."